South Africa came from behind to secure a 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic on Thursday. The Czechs made the brighter start and took the lead after just six minutes when Michal Sadilek found space inside the penalty area to convert Alexandr Sojka’s pass. 

Bafana Bafana gradually grew into the contest and created a series of chances after the break. Evidence Makgopa forced a fine save from goalkeeper Matej Kovar with a powerful header, while Hugo Broos’ substitutions injected fresh energy into the attack.

The decisive moment arrived in the 82nd minute when substitute Pavel Sulc was penalised for handball inside the box. Mokoena stepped up and calmly sent his penalty low into the corner one minute later to level the score. South Africa pushed for a winner in the closing stages, but the Czech Republic held firm as the two sides settled for a point apiece.

(FRANCE 24 with AFP)